A Forecastle is a superstructure at the bow of a ship where the crew is housed. Hard at work in the unruly sea, it’s a place workers gather after a long day to unwind. A place where the people come together, for one whale of a good time.

Founded in 2002 by Louisville native JK McKnight, Forecastle has grown from a neighborhood event to one of the country’s most anticipated summer festivals, drawing tens of thousands of fans from across the world to Louisville’s scenic 85-acre Waterfront Park.

In addition to featuring a who’s who of musical acts such as Jack White, The Black Keys, Outkast, Widespread Panic, Beck, Sam Smith, Smashing Pumpkins, My Morning Jacket, Bassnectar, The Flaming Lips, Band of Horses, Sleater-Kinney, and The Avett Brothers, Forecastle has consistently promoted local artists as well as focusing on environmental activism and outdoor recreation. Past Forecastles have featured prominent organizations, industry leaders, and distinguished speakers, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (Riverkeepers), Rob Caughlan (Surfrider Foundation) and Christopher Childs (Greenpeace International).

Forecastle is produced by Knoxville-based AC Entertainment, one of the country’s premiere independent concert promoters, producing more than 1,000 concerts throughout the Southeast plus major events such as Bonnaroo, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, and Big Ears Festival.

Forecastle is hosted in Louisville, KY, a thriving city of food, arts, and of course, bourbon. Located within a day’s drive of half the U.S. population, Possibility City is a great place to spend a weekend. Top notch bars, restaurants, hotels, and more are located just steps away from beautiful Waterfront Park in the heart of Downtown. There are some incredible activities to keep you busy during your time in Louisville. Check out our guide here!